Nick Clegg has been urged not to allow allegations of sexual harassment to be "brushed under the carpet" by Lib Dem activists.

They suggested that fresh allegations could yet surface after one member said the issue had infected the party locally and regionally.

Ealing-based campaigner Catherine Royce said she had been compelled to take to the stage to voice the concerns of local party members.

Addressing the Lib Dem party conference in Glasgow, she said: "There is a feeling within the party that this may be being brushed under the carpet again."

Meanwhile Natasha Chapman, a Lib Dem Activist based in Lincoln, told a fringe meeting on sexual harassment that she was made to feel uncomfortable by older party members.

Nick Clegg said the party is leading the way on the issue

"I have noticed that when I am introduced to older males within the party they do tend to do that thing where they hug you... I do hug members of my local party I am good friends with. But it does bother me.

"A few times people's hands are on your lower back and they do 'the slip'.

"You feel annoyed but then you do not want to start an argument on the spot. That is not very pleasant and it does affect your confidence."

Ms Royce urged "the leadership to not allow that to happen and to make it clear that the party is taking this extremely seriously".

She added: "Specifically, but without mentioning any names, this is an issue not just happening in headquarters, but in the regions and in the local parties.

"And I think some people know there are some specific issues which I hope the leadership and Tim (Farron) will take forward."

Ms Chapman said senior figures should have attended the fringe event.

In the wake of allegations levelled against former chief executive Lord Rennard, party bosses want anyone short-listed to become MPs or councillors to undergo anti-sexism training.

Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg insisted his party continued to "lead the way" on the issue.